Early-Morning Crime Wave Hits Lake Macquarie
New South Wales Police have launched a public appeal for information following a brazen early-morning crime spree that stretched across the western and eastern sides of Lake Macquarie. The incident involved up to eight male suspects and spanned more than two hours, leaving a trail of attempted break-ins and stolen vehicles in its wake.
A Trail of Crime Across Multiple Suburbs
The series of crimes began in the early hours of Tuesday, October 28, 2025, when a white MG SUV and a black Toyota Corolla were stolen from homes on the Central Coast. The situation escalated when, at approximately 3:10 am, the group of eight males was captured on CCTV attempting to force entry into a residence on Maddie Street in Bonnells Bay.
Failing to access the Bonnells Bay property, the suspects were seen departing the area in the two stolen vehicles. Their criminal activities continued about 40 minutes later at a service station on Freeman's Drive in Cooranbong. There, the group used various objects, including poles and hammers, in an attempt to gain entry before being disturbed by a vigilant neighbour and fleeing the scene.
The crime spree then moved to Catherine Hill Bay around 4:10 am, where the males attempted to enter more homes but were again unsuccessful. The group subsequently travelled up the Pacific Highway, culminating in a break-in at a home on Macquarie Grove in Caves Beach at 5:00 am. During this incident, an Isuzu D-Max utility was stolen, adding a third vehicle to their list of acquisitions.
Police Investigation and Suspect Description
Lake Macquarie detectives and Operation Soteria police were notified and have commenced a comprehensive investigation into the multi-suburb crime wave. Authorities have since successfully recovered the stolen white MG SUV and black Toyota Corolla, but the distinctive Isuzu D-Max utility remains missing.
Police are urgently seeking to speak with the occupants of the stolen vehicles and have released a description of the suspects. All eight males are described as being of slim build, aged in their late teens. They were last seen wearing hooded jumpers, long pants, joggers, and face coverings, making identification challenging.
Investigators are urging anyone with information about these incidents, or who can help identify the males captured on CCTV, to come forward immediately. The community is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit the official NSW Crime Stoppers website. All information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality.
